Man City’s Etihad Stadium is set to host the REACH Next Generation empowerment summit, a program aimed at inspiring young girls in sports and other industries. The summit, scheduled for Saturday, July 15, is designed to advise and empower girls aged 11-15, navigating the unique challenges they face in today’s modern world.
One of the main challenges young girls encounter is the influence of social media, which can lead to heightened scrutiny and self-esteem issues. The empowerment summit aims to combat these problems through 12 interactive sessions, offering advice and support from influential figures. The Mayor of Manchester, Andy Burnham, and GB Olympic sprinter, Desiree Henry, are among the individuals involved in the initiative, aiming to challenge young girls’ perceptions of such issues.
In an effort to promote inclusivity in sport, 20% of the 90 available places at the summit will be reserved for underrepresented communities and children’s charities. Barclays Bank, sponsors of the Women’s Super League and Championship since 2019, are leading the drive for inclusivity and have pledged £30 million towards the development of women’s football in the top two tiers over a three-year period.
Hannah Awonuga, Global Head of Colleague Engagement DEI of Barclays, expressed her excitement about sponsoring this year’s summit for the second time, highlighting the positive impact it has on young girls. Awonuga emphasized Barclays’ commitment to supporting organizations that inspire the next generation of talent and amplify diverse voices across different sectors. By showcasing diverse leaders, Barclays aims to challenge the narrative that may limit young women’s aspirations and create motivation and inspiration.
The REACH Summit provides a fantastic platform for girls aged 11-15 to be inspired, encouraged, and motivated to reach their full potential. As the event sponsor, Barclays is proud to play a part in supporting this unique gathering. The summit aims to empower young girls and help them overcome the challenges they face, fostering a generation of confident and successful women.
